9 Unique Wedding Traditions From Around The World

We’ve all seen various differences in wedding traditions around the world; from American bachelor/bachelorette parties, to Celtic hand binding and ring blessing… But what about some of the traditions that we know less about?
​
In today’s blog post, we’re exploring 9 wedding traditions from around the world and why they are significant within their respective cultures.

Bridal Crowns
The Norwegians promote brides wearing ‘brudekrone’, or a ‘bridal crown’ to deflect evil spirits. These delicate (and absolutely stunning) silver and gold crowns are thought to deter evil spirits and protect the couple from harm.

Flower Crowns
Similarly, in Sweden, brides wear a beautiful flower crown instead of a veil. Typically including a sprig of myrtle, the crown is a symbol of love that has been adopted by many across the world as a fashion statement in rustic weddings. 
​
Mehndi Ceremonies
The vibrant traditions of India are celebrated with the Mehndi ceremony. Intricate henna designs are applied to the bride’s hands and feet, symbolising beauty, joy and the enduring love shared between the couple.​

Log Cutting
In Germany, newlyweds take part in Baumstamm Sägen, where they work together to saw through a log. Done in front of their guests with a chainsaw, the act symbolises overcoming obstacles in the couple’s marriage and working together through tough times.

Spitting on the Bride
The Kenyan tradition has the father of the bride spitting on her dress, top of her head and chest for good luck. This is seen as a sign of respect for the Maasai people and helps promote good faith in the marriage.

​Stealing Shoes
Before pheras, a group of Indian wedding rituals, it is customary for the groom to take off his shoes. Joota Chupa is a game between the bride’s female relatives, where they attempt to trick him, loot his shoes and hide them, with the objective of achieving monetary gain in return for the shoes. 
Demonstrating the lifetime of fun and laughter that these families are to endure, the Joota Chupai is a moment of fun in a Hindu ceremony for partakers and spectators to enjoy alike.

Feet Beating
Whilst this sounds like something to avoid, the South Korean wedding tradition is actually a playful ritual to be enjoyed by many.
The groom is subject to having his shoes and socks removed, his ankles bound together and the soles of his feet beaten with a selection of materials: from a stick, to a fish. Meanwhile, the groom is asked riddles and trivia questions by his family and friends, testing his character and strength.

Woman in Black
Whilst this may seem a sinister tradition, it’s not quite referencing the horror movie character.
A Spanish bride is to wear a black lace gown and veil as a symbol of her devotion to her husband. Putting ‘till death do us part’ into the visuals...

Exchanging of Yaqona
A Fijian wedding traditionally features a Bilo Ceremony, where the couple exchange a polished and decorated coconut shell (a Bilo) filled with Yaqona (a traditional Fijian drink, often consumed on special occasions). This act symbolises the commitment, support and unity the couple have for one another and the readiness to care for one another for the rest of their lives.

We love learning about and experiencing different wedding traditions over here at Melt, so feel free to comment below any that you have experienced or implemented in yours or your client's wedding day.

Written by Siobhan Tinnion
Events and Marketing Manager